A more effective justice system with greater Aboriginal control

More people are able to access justice programs and services that are trauma informed, restorative and therapeutic

Good access to culturally-appropriate service responses for Aboriginal people is required to improve justice outcomes. There are many barriers preventing the Aboriginal community from engaging with justice services. This has been confirmed in a number of reviews including the Victorian Government’s Access to Justice Review, which clearly articulated that the needs of Aboriginal people are currently inadequately addressed. Areas highlighted by the review include high levels of mistrust of the law and government, translating into unmet legal need and intensifying disadvantage and exclusion from the justice system; and avoidance and delay in seeking assistance because of shame, lack of knowledge and fear of repercussions. Aboriginal women are recognised as one of the most disadvantaged groups in Australia facing significant barriers to accessing justice services, including lack of awareness of rights and options.

The importance of cultural safety in the provision of services to Aboriginal people cannot be under-estimated. A culturally safe system is one in which people feel safe, where there is no challenge or need for the denial of their identity, and where their needs are met. A culturally-responsive system is one in which non-Aboriginal people take responsibility to understand the importance of culture, country and community to Aboriginal health, wellbeing and safety, by working with Aboriginal communities to design and deliver culturally-responsive services.

Strengthen human rights protections for Aboriginal people involved in justice programs and services.

Build the capacity of justice services to provide family-centred, wrap around, holistic programs and services that promote the healing of the individual and contribute to the wellbeing of the community.

Justice agencies focus on improving the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal individuals and communities as a critical outcome of their work.

Existing initiatives

Magistrates’, Children’s and County Koori Courts.

Aboriginal roles and courts hearing days in the Neighbourhood Justice Centre.

Aboriginal cultural spaces in prisons and Youth Justice Centres.

Consumer Affairs Aboriginal Liaison Officer.

Aboriginal Community Justice Panels: support the safety of Aboriginal people who are taken into police custody.